Swimming is an Accessible Sport

No matter where we live, we likely have access to water. Most towns have a gym or local club that incorporates a pool. Many lakes and rivers have public access sites. And for those really dedicated, a quick internet search for pool builders near me will reveal local contractors that can install a pool right in your backyard. If you want to swim, there is likely a local option that will suit most any budget. 

If you are interested in swimming indoors but not sure your budget allows for a gym membership, you may research whether local schools or colleges offer free access to their pool facilities. Some will advertise public hours where local residents can come and swim for a minimal charge or for free. Some YMCA facilities also offer discounted membership pricing based on income level. 

Swimming is an Individual Sport

If you choose to keep fit by swimming, you only need to worry about getting yourself to the water. Team sports can be a great way to exercise, but coordinating times to play with multiple people can be challenging, if not impossible. It's easy to allow yourself to skip a workout when others cancel. Whether or not you swim is entirely up to you. 

However, if you enjoy the company of others while you swim, there are likely opportunities for socialization at your local facility. Many offer water aerobics classes for groups and some facilities may sponsor teams that you can join. The great thing about swimming is that while it is an individual sport, it also offers opportunities for socializing.

Swimming is a Low-Impact Sport

As we age, we often seek out activities that are a little kinder and gentler on our joints. People who have played high-impact sports throughout their lives often turn to swimming as they age, because it doesn't hurt their tired hips and knees. Even if you choose to continue these high-impact activities as you grow older, you can incorporate swimming workouts to maintain fitness while giving your body a break. 

Swimming burns a lot of calories while water cushions your body. For anyone who experiences pain or soreness in their joints, swimming can be a welcome break from the discomfort. For those rehabilitating after injury, swimming is an often-prescribed method to maintain a certain level of fitness while healing. 

Often when we look back on our childhood, we remember the joy of activities that are no longer accessible to us. We may not have the physical ability to play tag. We may find it incredibly challenging to assemble a large enough group of friends to play soccer. But the joy we found in swimming as children is something that we can often recreate in our adult and senior years. And this joy is compounded by the fact that we know what a great exercise it is, and how good it is for our bodies to move in the water. Thankfully, some things do get better as we age. And swimming is one of those things.

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